New England Patriots and former Arkansas Razorback Ryan Mallett hands a pair of custom, signed cleats to an attendee during Saturday’s Mingle with Mallett fundraiser at Cyclone Stadium. Mallett designed the cleats and wore them during the Patriots’ AFC championship game against the Baltimore Ravens. (THE COURIER / Travis Simpson)

According to Equestrian Zone and Recovery Zone manager Jodi Kusturin, Saturday’s Mingle with Mallett fundraiser was a financial and spiritual success.

Mallett, the former Arkansas Razorback and current New England Patriot, helped raise $2,860 for the Equestrian Zone and put a smile on as many as 200 faces at Russellville High School’s Cyclone Stadium.

“I thought it was great,” Kusturin said. “Ryan was very genuine and extremely kind. You could tell he truly cared about this cause. You could see how much it mattered written all over the faces of our patients. They were so pumped that someone like Ryan would take time out for us.”

Before the meet-and-greet, those who purchased special VIP passes were welcomed into an intimate luncheon with Mallet — where Quizno’s Subs of Russellville contributed to help keep overhead costs low for the Equestrian Zone.

“Quizno’s donated all the food. We didn’t pay for any of it,” Kusturin said.

Mallett was originally slated to attend the Equestrian Zone’s annual fundraiser, Boots and Benefactors BBQ on April 6, but scheduling conflicts required him to be in Boston for spring training on that date.

“When we found out he couldn’t make it to the benefit, he contacted us about doing Mingle with Mallet,” Kursturin said.

Mallet’s contribution moved The Equestrian Zone one step closer to its goal, but there is still a long way to go. The outdoor arena the organization needs can cost upwards of $200,000.

The Boots and Benefactors BBQ has set a goal of $36,000 to move closer to that goal.

Kursturin said Saturday’s event wouldn’t have been as successful without Mallet’s graciousness, but also the graciousness and hard work of the volunteers.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of our organization,” she said. “We wouldn’t be the Equestrian Zone without them. They’re priceless and they do more than anyone could ever see.”